Paris + A Letter to My Boys

You know how we've always talked about possibly living in France one day, how nice it would be to experience life in Papa's homeland? ….well, it's about to happen. We're officially moving to Paris this February!

I can hardly believe it myself. I've been in a dual state of joy and gratitude ever since the opportunity arose and the dream became realized, and now we hold in our hands what was once upon a time a vague far away vision.

But amid all this excitement, I am deeply aware of the challenges that lay ahead - assimilation to a new school and new environment, embracing quirky cultural differences and of course the longing that comes with missing our friends and family stateside. Even the little place we’ve called home here in the US, as it becomes more and more empty, we will surely miss. It is where you both grew up, where the littlest of you lived three of your first and only years.

It seems you're still too young to worry about all the changes to come (thank goodness),... for now it's easier for you than for me. Ultimately home is our family of four. As long as we are together we are home, wherever we live in the world.

So let's go boldly into this new adventure, hearts aflutter. And remind ourselves to forever guard that place in our heart that believes that dreams really do come true, to "focus on the powerful, euphoric, magical, synchronistic, beautiful parts of life... [because] the Universe will keep giving them to you."

I love you both, pour toujours et à jamais (for ever + ever) -

Maman

p.s. oops, almost forgot to thank you for allowing me and Papa to give away so many of your toys and books to help us lighten our load.

... and dear readers, I hope you will join us in the coming weeks as we prepare for our big move to Paris. I plan to share with you all the magic of the City of Light through an intimate perspective you will hopefully find new and engaging.

Oh wow! What an adventure! This is something I have longed to do too...live and experience life in another country and culture. I am now a new follower as I look forward to experiencing your journey with you!

Ohhhh my, Catherine!! Your dream come true (and mine, ha!). I know that you have been wanting to do this. I understand how you feel about change, especially for your boys. These are good changes for you all, my friend! I am so excited for you, and I can't wait to follow you on your journey! I will be living vicariously through your adventures with your fellas. One day, we will have to visit you :)

I think this is actually an amazing gift to your children! What an education this will be. I loved the years of raising my children overseas. Of course there were challenges, and things we preferred about our homeland, but the good times were so so good! So happy for you and I look forward to watching the journey!

Oh, my -- what exciting news! I'm looking forward to your posts from Paris. Wishing you a smooth move and a fast settling in time. You're right -- wherever the 4 of you are, that will be home. I'm excited for you and this great adventure!

What a wonderful letter, I wish you all the best. We have moved our children many times as they were growing up and I always talk about the special months just after you move, before everyone finds their feet as being incredibly special family bonding times... Enjoy!Wren x

That is so, so exciting Catherine!! What a beautiful thing to read to start my new year - good luck with the preparations and big move, I can't wait to hear further how it goes!! Happy 2014 and I see it's already off to a great start!

So love the photo of your boys - and your heart-felt letter to them. Children of their age look on changes like the one you're about to make as a wonderful adventure. I look forward to your news of the move. PS I'm having fits with your comment ID today - will try for the 5th time to get it right!